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Catwalk Photography by Christian bowman

Flawless designs by Darb Bridal brought him not only 4 finalist pieces in Australian Fashion Design Awards but he is taking home the Supreme Award of the evening.

His dramatic bridal gowns had the crowds in awe, His gown “Fallon” featured hand embroidered silk organza, following “Fallon down the runway,  was Darb’s “Dior look” bridal gown with its stunning large bow at the waist reminiscent of Dior in the 50′s. His ostrich feather trimmed dress had the runway scorched as the model strutted down in the Fashions On the Field ensemble. Encore to this feiry creation came a  gorgeous model prancing down the runway in the final dress “Makayla” it was such a sure thing that Mr Webb would take the cake.

Childrens wear label, Birikini, a collaboration between Kylie Prizzirani & Chelsea Hillbrick received the Rising Star Award for their gorgeous collection inspired by Ethnic roots, Russian princess’ and babushka dolls. The Birikini totts wore gorgeous berets, little vests and cute little capes adorned with pom poms.

Eva Huynh took the award for student designer had a standout collection with her detialled collection of dresses. Layering fabrics to replicate her influences of patterns, textures and forms. Her feminine collection in creams, blush pinks and a soft mushroom clearly caught the judges eye. A happy Eva took to the stage to accept her award sponsored by the Gold Coast Exhibition Centre.

Once again Lisa Brown had exactly what the judges were looking for, giving her another finalist position in the Bridal category.  Darb Couture took out an amazing 4 final spots in the signature showcase category, with 2 of four entries being chosen for Bridal, also having one entry of 3 in couture making the cut and one of three in fashions on the field.

Signature Showcase Finalists:
Brides Desire by Airs & Graces, Wendy Sullivan, West End, Queensland [BRIDAL]
Darb Bridal Couture, Brad Webb, Brisbane, Queensland – 2 finalist entries [BRIDAL]
Lisa Brown, Lisa Brown, Clear Island Waters, Queensland [BRIDAL]
Strictly Bridal, Ann Wilson, Mudgeeraba, Queensland [BRIDAL]

Darb Bridal Couture, Brad Webb, Brisbane, Queensland [COUTURE]
Dimitria Bridal Couture, Dimitria Kal & Christina Kal, Albert Park, Queensland [COUTURE]

Darb Bridal Couture, Brad Webb, Brisbane, Queensland [FASHIONS ON THE FIELD]
Taree Birse, Taree Birse, Southport, Queensland [FASHIONS ON THE FIELD]

Students were asked to create their vision for Australian fashion in 2009. The designs can be anything from swimwear to bridal couture and with that much creative freedom the possibilities are endless. This year saw some extremely talented designers take on the runway, students throughout Australia battling for top spot in the Australian Retail Awards finals to take place on April 9th. The competition was fierce and the standard of garments phenomenally high. Congratulations to the four finalists from heat 4 on the Gold Coast ….

I was excited to get an interview with the fabulous Gillian Marriage of Riot swimwear, who has not only competed in and won multiple awards for her swimwear label, but has also managed to make time to teach her skills to fashion students, myself included, at the Australian Institute of Fashion Design.

I also had a chance to have a chat with MSIT student finalist of last years 27th NRA Awards, Megan Todd, who has since taken up a scholarship in Italy and is now working as a designer for Billabong.

All in all a fabulous evening with its glamorous atmosphere and free flowing champagne. Cheers!